Mexican Supreme Court rules in favor of marijuana in limited case

According to Associated Press, Mexico’s Supreme Court ruled Wednesday November 4th, that growing, possessing and smoking marijuana for recreation is legal under the right to freedom.

The measure was approved on 4-1 vote of the five-justice panel, backing the argument that smoking marijuana is covered under the right of “free development of personality.” Although the ruling was limited to four plaintiffs, it is expected to lead to many additional challenges to Mexico’s marijuana regulations.

“No one has said at all that marijuana is harmless. It is a drug and, as such, it causes damage,” said Justice Arturo Zaldívar, who wrote the majority opinion. “What is being resolved here is that total prohibition is a disproportionate measure.”

At the same time, the ruling will help legalization measures being written in Congress, said Moy Schwartzman, one of the lawyers for the plaintiffs.

“They’re noting this case and using it in their favor to present a law that will be in agreement and will protect people’s rights,” Schwartzman said. “In Mexico, this is a political theme. But the ruling gives importance to human rights, in this case liberty.”

President Enrique Peña Nieto, via his Twitter account, said he recognizes and will respect the ruling, adding that he has given his government orders to explain to Mexicans the scope of the ruling.

“This will open up the debate over the best regulation for inhibiting drug consumption, a public health issue,” he wrote. “Mexico has promoted in international forums … broadening the discussion.”

Zaldívar said Wednesday’s ruling would forbid smoking marijuana in front of others without their consent. It is unclear whether public consumption, even by the few people covered by the case, could still be regulated under public nuisance codes as alcohol is. For example, drinking in the street is forbidden in many parts of Mexico.

“We have to see what the limits will be,” said Health Secretary Mercedes Juan, referring to maximum allowed quantities and where or how consumption would be allowed.

Proponents of legalizing marijuana staged a low-key demonstration outside the court building, including displaying information on marijuana use and legalization. Many in the crowd celebrated by lighting up, including César Zanabria, who puffed on a fat homemade marijuana cigarette.

“Effectively this says a person can consume marijuana, or not, and no one is going to make him a criminal,” Zanabria said, adding that he has been detained twice for smoking, even though personal consumption already is legal in Mexico. “This will start to get rid of the stigma.”